New Delhi, Oct 3 (KNS): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday congratulated the Indian men's cricket team for winning the gold medal at the Asian Games 2026, describing the triumph as a "smashing victory" for the country.

India defeated arch-rivals Pakistan by 19 runs in a thrilling final to successfully defend the gold medal it had won at the 2023 edition.

In a post on X, Amit Shah aa per news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) said, "Smashing Victory for India! Hats off to our Men's Cricket Team for the exhilarating win in today's match, clinching the Gold Medal at the #AsianGames2026."

"The typhoon of performance you unleashed on the ground, with your mighty scores, tearing bowling and robust fielding, ensured that the rival team stood no chance and India went on a celebration spree," he said.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

"We are all proud of you. May victory always be yours," the Home Minister added.

Batting first, India posted 211 for six in their allotted 20 overs, riding on Abhishek Sharma's blistering 61 off 28 balls and an unbeaten 51 by Tilak Varma.

In reply, Pakistan managed 192 for six despite a valiant 96 off 51 balls from Hasan Nawaz.

India's bowling attack, led by Axar Patel, Washington Sundar and Shivam Dube, who claimed two wickets each, held its nerve to seal the title and complete a successful defence of the gold medal won in 2023.(KNS)